Why everyone is talking about prostrations...

An Ancient Practice With Modern Benefits

In the early church, believers often prayed with their whole bodies. One of the most common practices was the prostration: bowing down, touching the forehead to the ground, then rising again. This posture was more than symbolism. It was a way of humbling the body before God, echoing Psalm 95:6, “Oh come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!”

What Science Says About Movement in Prayer

Physical therapists point out that the motion of kneeling and rising strengthens core muscles, improves flexibility, and supports joint health. Cardiologists have even found that repeated motions like bowing can stimulate blood flow and gently raise heart rate, almost like light exercise. Again, we see our faith can be a literal health cheat code.

Mentally, prostrations can regulate stress. Research shows that body postures connected with humility and surrender lower cortisol levels, the hormone tied to anxiety. By aligning posture with prayer, the body signals to the brain a state of peace and trust.

How to Try Prostrations Safely

• Start small: Do 3–5 prostrations as part of your morning prayer.

• Mind your body: If you have knee or back issues, modify by bowing forward while seated.

• Stay prayerful: With each bow, say a simple prayer like, “Lord, have mercy.”

Why This Matters

Prostrations remind us that faith is not only in the mind but lived through the body. They bring together spiritual devotion, physical exercise, and mental calm into one simple rhythm of prayer.

^{(This article is not to be considered medical advice, but rather faith and theology in practice advice. Please always consult your doctor.)}